Power mower with riding platform for supporting standing operator during operation

ABSTRACT

A zero-turning radius self-propelled power lawn mower includes a standing platform structure for supporting a standing operator during mower operation. The mower has a combination parking brake and pump lockout structure which, when actuated, simultaneously applies a braking force to rear drive wheels and prevents hydro pumps from being moved from their neutral positions. The mower also includes a biasing system for automatically returning hand control levers to their neutral positions when they are not being manipulated by an operator. Unique cutter deck structure, caster structure, grass catcher structure, and steering control levers are also provided.

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser. No.08/827,455, filed Mar. 28, 1997, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated herein by reference.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is related to commonly owned U.S. Pat. Nos.5,600,944; 5,507,138; and Ser. No. 08/932,932, the disclosures of whichare hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] This invention relates to a power driven device. Moreparticularly, this invention relates to a zero turning radius power lawnmower including a riding platform for supporting a standing operator.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Conventional hydraulically driven (i.e. hydrostaticallycontrolled) machines such as power lawn mowers include a pair of drivewheels, each of which is independently operated by a hydraulic (i.e.hydrostatic) pump coupled to the mower's engine. A corresponding motoris provided for each drive wheel, each motor being powered andcontrolled by one of the pumps. Each pump includes a control lever forregulating fluid pressure and direction to its corresponding motor sothat the drive wheels can be independently controlled so that each maybe rotated at variable speeds in both forward and reverse directions. Inthis manner, the mower may be steered by controlling the speed anddirection of the two drive wheels. This type of design is found in themower inventions herein.

[0005] In certain of the above-identified mowers and in the instantinventions, it is possible to operate one of the drive wheels at apredetermined speed in a first direction and the other drive wheel atthe same speed in the opposite direction, thereby enabling the operatorto conduct zero-radius turns of the mower. This, of course, provides forimproved maneuverability in tight environments. Exemplary zero-radiusturning mowers are disclosed in commonly owned U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,507,138and 5,600,944.

[0006] Conventional power mowers are generally divided into threeseparate categories: (i) self-propelled walk behind mowers; (ii) mowersoperated by a seated occupant; and (iii) mowers operated by a standingoperator. Walk behind mowers and mowers operated by seated occupantshave a number of disadvantages, some of which are discussed in thebackground section of the parent application, and in the backgroundsections of the above-identified U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,507,138 and 5,600,944,each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0007] Unfortunately, known prior art mowers which have a platform forsupporting a standing operator, such as that disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.4,878,339, have a number of disadvantages. These include inefficientdesign, overly complicated design and equipment, the utilization ofparts which are not efficiently manufacturable or easily assembled inmass production environments, etc.

[0008] It is apparent from the above that there exists a need in the artfor a power lawn mower operable by a standing occupant including anefficient and operator-friendly design, and parts therefor which areefficient, easily made, cost-effective, and the like. Each of theabove-identified advantages is accomplished herein.

[0009] It is a purpose of this invention to fulfill the above-describedneeds in the art, as well as other needs which will become apparent tothe skilled artisan from the following detailed description of thisinvention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Generally speaking, this invention fulfills the above-describedneeds in the art by providing a zero-turning radius power lawn mower foroperation by a standing occupant, the mower comprising:

[0011] an engine for driving at least one cutting blade;

[0012] first and second drive wheels whose drive direction and speed arecontrolled by first and second pumps, respectively;

[0013] a brake lever that may be actuated in order to apply a brakingeffect or force to the mower; and

[0014] a pump lockout system that is engaged to prevent the first andsecond pumps from being changed from a neutral state, the pump lockoutsystem being engaged along with the braking force when an occupant oroperator actuates the brake lever.

[0015] In certain preferred embodiments, the mower includes a standingplatform for supporting the standing occupant, the platform beinglocated relative to a handle member (which is positioned forward of thezero-radius turning axis) so that a substantial portion of theoccupant's body may be located a zero-radius turning axis or point ofthe mower during zero-radius turns thereof so that the occupant issubstantially unaffected by centrifugal force created during zero-radiusturns of the mower.

[0016] This invention further fulfills the above-described needs in theart by providing a zero-radius turning mower comprising:

[0017] first and second drive wheels;

[0018] a steering control assembly for controlling steering of themower, the steering control assembly including a rigid bar forsupporting hands of the operator during mower operation, first andsecond pivotable control levers positioned on one side of the rigid barfor selectively controlling reverse speed of the first and second drivewheels respectively, wherein each of the first and second control leversis adapted to be pivoted toward the rigid bar in order to cause acorresponding one of the drive wheels to move in a reverse direction;and

[0019] the steering control assembly further including third and fourthpivotable control levers positioned on the other side of the rigid barso that the rigid bar is disposed between (i) the first and secondcontrol levers; and (ii) the third and fourth control levers; andwherein the first and fourth control levers are each adapted to bepivoted toward the rigid bar in order to cause a corresponding drivewheel to be driven in a forward direction.

[0020] In certain preferred embodiments, the first, second, third, andfourth levers are pivotable about a common pivot axis.

[0021] This invention further fulfills the above-described needs in theart by providing a self-propelled power lawn mower for operation by astanding operator, the mower comprising:

[0022] a platform structure for supporting the standing operator duringmower operation, the platform structure being at least partially locatedbetween first and second rear drive wheels of the mower; and

[0023] wherein the platform structure includes a bottom surface forsupporting the operator, first and second sidewalls connected to thebottom surface for shielding the operator's feet from the wheels, and anoverhang portion connected to the sidewalls which at least partiallyoverhangs the bottom surface so as to be disposed between an engine andthe operator's feet.

[0024] This invention will now be described with respect to certainembodiments thereof, accompanied by certain illustrations, wherein:

IN THE DRAWINGS

[0025]FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a stand-on zero-radiusturning mower according to an embodiment of this invention.

[0026]FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the handle mechanism supportassembly, engine deck, and separate and independent cutter deck of theFIG. 1 embodiment.

[0027]FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a parking brake control systemadapted for use in the FIG. 1-2 mower, according to certain embodimentsof this invention.

[0028]FIG. 4 is a side partial cross-sectional view of a pivoting pumpcontrol lever and notched locking tab of the FIG. 3 structure.

[0029]FIG. 5 is an exploded elevational view of the brake lever assemblyof the FIG. 3-4 structure.

[0030]FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating the upper portion of thehandle mechanism control assembly according to an embodiment of thisinvention adapted to be used in conjunction with the mowers of allembodiments herein.

[0031]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an automatic neutral controlreturn system according to an embodiment of this invention, this systemadapted to be used in combination with the mower of FIGS. 1-6 and allembodiments herein.

[0032]FIG. 8 is a rear elevational view of the handle mechanism assemblysupporting structure of the FIG. 1 mower, according to an embodiment ofthis invention, this structure adapted to be used in conjunction withthe mower of FIGS. 1-7 and all embodiments herein.

[0033]FIG. 9 is a rear elevational view of the FIG. 8 structure, exceptthat the rear wheel assembly and handle bar(s) and dash are notillustrated.

[0034]FIG. 10 is a partially exploded elevational view of the enginedeck structure for supporting wheel motors, handle bar assembly, andoperator support platform structure according to an embodiment of thisinvention, this structure adapted to be used in conjunction with themower of FIGS. 1-9 and all embodiments herein.

[0035]FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the cutter deck according to anembodiment of this invention, this cutter deck adapted to be used inconjunction with the mower of FIGS. 1-10 and all embodiments herein.

[0036]FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the FIG. 11 cutter deck, and inaddition to FIG. 11 illustrates how the cutter deck may be attached tothe separate and independent engine deck, the engine deck beingillustrated in dotted lines.

[0037]FIG. 13 is a top transparent view of the cutter deck of FIGS.11-12, looking through the top surface of the deck to show thecomponents underneath the deck's top surface.

[0038]FIG. 14 is a top elevational view of the cutter deck of FIGS.11-13, this cutter deck adapted to be used in conjunction with any ofthe mowers herein.

[0039]FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the side discharge openingstructure of the cutter deck of FIGS. 11-14.

[0040]FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating certain components of adeadman switch operatively associated with the operator supportplatform, this structure to be used in conjunction with the mower ofFIGS. 1-15 and all embodiments herein.

[0041]FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a pump clamp, is after it hasbeen bent about its center area, this clamp operatively associated withthe structure of FIGS. 23-26.

[0042]FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a pair of anti-wheelie wheelslocated adjacent the rear of the mower for anti-tip-over purposes, thisstructure adapted to be used in conjunction with the mower of FIGS. 1-17herein and all embodiments herein.

[0043]FIG. 19 is a partial side elevational view of the anti-wheeliestructure of FIG. 18 on the FIG. 1-17 mower, including the mower's wheeland handle support assembly portions.

[0044]FIG. 20 is a side elevational view illustrating the anti-tippingstructure of FIGS. 18-19 on the FIG. 1-19 mower, this figure showing howthe anti-wheelie structure prevents backward tipping (i.e. wheelies)over of the mower of FIGS. 1-19 herein.

[0045]FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a fuel tank support bracketaccording to certain embodiments of this invention, this bracket adaptedto be used in conjunction with the mower of FIGS. 1-20 and allembodiments herein.

[0046]FIG. 22 illustrates the not-yet-bent bracket of FIG. 21, in a sideview manner mounted to the engine deck, this bracket also useable in asingular manner to support a battery mounting plate in certainembodiments. The shape of this support is advantageous in that it isshaped to mount to the top of the engine deck and clear the chute path.

[0047]FIG. 23 is a side elevation view of the clamp of FIG. 17 in itsmanufacturing process, before it is bent (i.e. prior to forming of theFIG. 17 bent structure).

[0048]FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a pump shaft operativelyassociated with the FIG. 17 and FIG. 23 clamp, the shaft portion shownin FIG. 24 operatively associated with the FIG. 26 structure as shown.

[0049]FIG. 25 is a perspective view of control linkage coupled to theclamps of FIGS. 17, 23, and 24.

[0050]FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating the overall pump clampand lever assembly including the components of FIGS. 17 and 23-25, thisassembly to be used in conjunction with the mower of the differentembodiments herein.

[0051]FIG. 27 is a rear elevational view, with the tire beingillustrated in cross-section, of the right rear side of a mower inaccordance with an embodiment of this invention, this particularembodiment or system for enlarging the standing area for the operatorbetween the rear drive wheels, this structure useable in accordance withany of the embodiments herein.

[0052]FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the cutter deck of FIGS. 11-14,in conjunction with its deck cover according to an embodiment of thisinvention.

[0053]FIG. 29 is an exploded perspective view of the caster structurefor each of the front caster wheels of the mowers of this invention,according to certain embodiments.

[0054]FIG. 30 is an exploded perspective view of the FIG. 29 casteryoke, caster pivot pin, and cross bar, this caster structure adapted tobe used for supporting front wheels according to any embodiment of thisinvention.

[0055]FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the FIG. 15 cutter deckside-grass-discharge opening, with a grass deflector pivotally attachedthereto according to certain embodiments of this invention.

[0056]FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a grass catcher adapted to beattached to the cutter deck structure shown in FIGS. 15 and 31 accordingto certain embodiments of this invention.

[0057]FIG. 33 is a top elevational view of the FIG. 32 grass catcherattached to the FIG. 31 cutter deck according to certain embodiments ofthis invention, this catcher assembly adapted to be used in conjunctionwith all mower embodiments herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS IN THIS INVENTION

[0058] Referring now more particularly to the accompanying drawings inwhich like reference numerals indicate like parts throughout the severalviews herein.

[0059]FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a zero-turning radiusstand-on mower according to certain embodiments of this invention, thismower including a foot platform support structure 18 for supporting astanding (at least substantially upright) operator during operation ofthe mower. Structure 18 supports an operator supporting metal perforatedsheet 234 upon which the operation stands, sheet 234 being part ofstructure 18. FIG. 2 shows only the cutter deck, engine deck, and ahandle support of the FIG. 1 mower. The mower's handle bar 10 andhand-control mechanism and steering control levers 17 and 19 are locatedforward of the zero-radius turning axis and are thus positioned so thatthe standing occupant can at least be partially positioned at the zeroradius turning axis or point (between the rear drive wheels) duringzero-radius turns of the mower so that the operator is substantiallyunaffected by centrifugal force created during such zero radius turnswhen the rear drive wheels 7 are operated at substantially the samespeed in opposite directions.

[0060] The FIG. 1-2 mower includes cutter deck 1, engine deck 3, (themower and cutter decks are separate deck structures for performingdifferent functions), a pair of front caster wheels 5 a pair of reardrive wheels 7, engine 9 mounted on engine deck 3, handle controlassembly 11 for allowing the operator to control the rotation drivespeed and direction of the rear drive wheels 7, thigh pad 13 forenabling the operator to rest his/her thighs thereon during operation,support assembly 15 extending upwardly at an angle from engine deck 3 soas to support thigh pad 13 and handle control assembly 11 (this supportassembly includes first and second upwardly extending supports 15located on opposite sides of the operator support platform), and cuttingblades positioned beneath cutting deck 1 (the cutting blades are drivenby engine 9). The tops of supports 15 bend such that they curve over topof the engine and the like.

[0061] Handle control assembly 11 includes rigid handle bar 10 fixedlyattached to supports 15, reverse control levers 17, and forward controllevers 19. Control levers 17 and 19 are pivotally affixed to supports 15about axis 21 so that the standing operator can control the steering ofthe mower via the rear drive wheels 7 by pivoting levers 17 and/or 19during operation. There are two separate reverse control levers 17 (onecorresponding to each rear drive wheel 7) and two separate forwardcontrol levers 19 (one corresponding to each rear drive wheel 7).

[0062] During operation, the operator stands on the pivotal platformsheet 234 of operator support platform structure 18 and holds onto rigidnon-pivoting handle bar 10 for support during mower operation. In orderto cause a particular rear drive wheel 7 to be driven in a reversedirection, the operator simply pulls the reverse control lever 17corresponding to the wheel to be controlled backward so that lever 17pivots about axis 21, and the degree to which the lever 17 is pivotedbackward toward bar 10 dictates and determines the speed of the reardrive wheel 7 being controlled. In a similar manner, in order to causeone of wheels 7 to be driven in a forward direction, the operator movesor pivots the forward control lever 19 corresponding to that particulardrive wheel in a forward direction toward rigid bar 10, and thedegree/distance to which the lever 19 is moved dictates or determinesthe forward speed of the wheel 7 being controlled. In order to cause themower to move in a straight forward direction for example, the operatorpivots both levers 19 forward toward bar 10 a substantially equalamount/distance. In order to cause the mower to move straight backwardthe operator would pull both reverse levers 17 backward toward bar 10 insubstantially equal amounts. The mower is turned by the operator bycausing the rear drive wheels 7 to rotate at different speeds in thesame or opposite direction, or at the same speed in opposite directions.For example, when the mower is moving in a forward direction theoperator may turn slightly to the right by pushing both levers 19forward toward bar 10, but pushing the left hand lever 19 furtherforward than the right hand lever 19 so that the left rear drive wheel 7is driven at a faster forward speed than the right hand rear drive wheel7. For zero-radius turns about a pivot axis located between the two reardrive wheels 7, the reverse lever 17 corresponding to one wheel 7 ispulled backward a predetermined amount and the forward lever 19corresponding to the other wheel 7 is pushed forward substantially thesame predetermined amount so that the two drive wheels 7 rotate atsubstantially the same speed in opposite directions.

[0063] It is noted that each support member 15 includes a central bend23 located proximate a central area thereof, and another lower bend 25provided at the bottom of support 15 for the purpose of allowing thesupport 15 to be bolted or otherwise affixed to a ton surface of enginedeck 3. The control assembly 11 also includes dash panel or dashboard27.

[0064] FIGS. 3-5 illustrate a parking brake and pump control lockoutcontrol system according to an embodiment of this invention. The FIG.3-5 system is, of course, adapted to be used in conjunction with themower of FIGS. 1-2. The system can be actuated when the mower is inneutral (i.e. when steering control levers 17 and 19 are not beingtouched by the operator and are thus biased into their respectiveneutral positions), and when this system is actuated pins 53 becomelocked in recesses or cutouts 46 defined in locking lever members 45 and47 respectively so that pump control levers 49 (e.g. lever forcontrolling left-hand pump) and 51 (e.g. lever for controlling righthand pump) and elongated rod 43 are locked in place and parking brakeshoes 59 engage the tires of wheels 7. Thus, when the lockout and brakesystem is actuated, simultaneously (i) the parking brake is set on themower, and (ii) levers 17 and 19 cannot be moved and therefor pumps 31and 33 cannot be adjusted from their neutral positions.

[0065] FIGS. 3-5 illustrate the lockout system in an actuated (orlocked) position when parking brake lever 35 (see FIG. 5) has beenpulled upward by an operator, with FIG. 3 illustrating the systemgenerally except for parking brake lever 35, its handle 37, and stopmember 41 which are shown in FIG. 5 (FIG. 3 does not illustrate lever 35for purposes of simplicity). FIG. 4 is a close-up view showing how a pin53 becomes locked in a cutout 46 when the brake and lockout system isactuated.

[0066] As illustrated in FIGS. 3-5, the parking brake and pump controllockout system includes hydraulic/hydrostatic pump 31 for controllingthe direction and speed of one (e.g. left) rear drive wheel 7,hydraulic/hydrostatic pump 33 for controlling the direction and speed ofthe other (e.g. right) rear drive wheel 7, handle control assembly 11including reverse control levers 17 and forward control levers 19,substantially L-shaped parking brake control lever 35 and correspondinghandle 37 portion (see FIG. 5), push rod 39 pivotally affixed to brakelever 35 at pivot axis 36, stop member 41 rigidly mounted to the mower(see FIG. 5) thigh pad 13 (see FIG. 5), engine base or deck 3, rigidrotatable bar 43 mounted on top of the engine deck and adapted to rotateabout its elongated axis, locking lever members 45 and 47, pivoting pumpcontrol levers 49 and 51, elongated pin members 53 which are affixed tolevers 49 and 51 respectively and which are adapted to operatively lockor fit into the respective cutouts or recesses 46 defined in members 45and 47, spring 55 for biasing rod 43 and member 57 about their commonpivot or rotation axis into a non-actuated position, brake shoes 59 foroperatively braking the tires of wheels 7, brake shoe supporting members61 for coupling shoes 59 to rod 43, elongated support members 63extending between the pair of supports 15 for pivotally supporting thehandle assembly, steering control rods 75, and rod connecting member oryoke 65 pivotally connecting brake/lockout pushrod 39 to member 57.There are two commonly aligned members 63, one corresponding to each setof levers for each drive wheel. Yoke 65 is threadedly coupled to pushrod39 at one end thereof in a non-pivoting manner, and is pivotallyattached to member 57 at its other end so that vertical movement ofpushrod 39 causes member 57 and rod 43 to rotate together about theircommon elongated axis.

[0067] Still referring to FIGS. 3-5, the operator can manipulate thespeed and direction of rear drive wheels 7 by moving control levers 17and 19. For example, when a reverse control lever 17 is pulled backwardby the operator, it pivots about axis 21, 71 which causes a member 73 tocause a steering control rod 75 to move downward. When rod 75 movesdownward as a result of its corresponding lever 17 being pulledbackward, this causes the corresponding pump control lever 49 to pivotin a clockwise direction (relative to the FIG. 3 illustration) aboutpump shaft axis 77 thereby controlling the pump at issue so that thepump causes the wheel 7 being controlled to rotate in a reversedirection at a speed dictated by the amount the lever 17 was pulledbackward. Meanwhile, when either of forward control levers 19 is pushedforward by the operator, this causes the corresponding rod 75 to movevertically upward thereby causing the lever 49 being manipulated torotate counterclockwise about its axis 77 so that the pump at issuecauses the corresponding wheel 7 to rotate forward at a speed dictatedby the amount the lever 19 was moved forward. Depending upon thedirection and degree of rotation of axis/rod 77, pump 31/33 iscontrolled so as to manipulate the direction and speed of thecorresponding drive wheel 7. It is noted that the mower is in “neutral”when none of levers 17 and 19 are pushed or pulled by the operator.

[0068] The parking brake and pump lockout system of FIGS. 3-5 isactuated when the operator pulls handle 37 upward to the position shownin FIG. 5. However, spring 55 biases member 57 and rod 43 to anon-actuated position, so that when handle 37 is not pulled, rod 43 isbiased by spring 55 to rotate backward in a clockwise direction(relative to the FIG. 3 illustration) about its axis so that lockinglevers 45 and 47 are substantially spaced from pins 53 and the lockoutsystem cannot become engaged. When the operator pulls handle 37 toactuate the system, this causes rod 43 to rotate counterclockwise towardpins 53 against the biasing force of spring 55, and the lockout systemcan be engaged when the mower is in neutral and the position of pins 53is such that they slide into (i.e. become engaged with) cutouts orrecesses 46. The parking brake and pump lockout system can only beactuated or engaged when the mower is in neutral because this is theonly time when the position of pins 53 corresponds to the position ofcutouts 46 when handle 37 is pulled upward.

[0069]FIG. 4 is a side partial cross-sectional view illustrating in anenlarged manner how an elongated pin or bar 53 which is attached to apump control lever 49 can become locked in locking member 45 so as tolock brake shoes 59 in place against wheels 7 so as to actuate theparking brake , and lock out control of movement of levers 49 and thuscontrol of pumps 31 and 33. Referring to FIG. 5, in order to actuate theparking brake and pump lockout system, when the mower is in neutral theoperator pulls lever 35 upward via handle member 37 so that lever 35pivots about axis 81 in a counterclockwise direction. As a result ofthis counterclockwise pivoting of lever 35, pushrod 39 is movedvertically downward until the bottom side or surface 83 of lever 35comes to rest against stop 41 (see FIG. 5). When bottom surface 83 oflever 35 comes to rest against stop 41, pushrod 39 has been pusheddownward thereby causing pivoting member/lever 57 to rotatecounterclockwise along with rod 43 to which it is rigidly affixed so asto pivot locking members 45 and 47 counterclockwise so that lockingcutouts 46 slide around and become engaged with pins 53. When pins 53are engaged in the cutouts or recesses 46 in locking members 45 and 47respectively, this prevents pump control levers/arms 49, and controllevers 17 and 19 from moving thereby keeping the mower in neutral untilhandle 37 is pushed downward by the operator to deactuate or disengagethe parking brake and pump lockout system. At the same time that rod 43rotates counterclockwise when brake handle 37 is pulled to actuate thesystem, this also causes members 61 to pivot counterclockwise with rod43 about their common axis which in turn forces the corresponding brakeshoes 59 into engagement with the tires of wheels 7 so as to engage theparking brake. The combination parking brake/pump control lockout systemis disengaged simply by pushing handle 37 downward so as to causesurface 83 to become disengaged with stop 41 which allows rod 39 to moveupward and spring 55 to bias rod 43 and members 45 into disengagedpositions remote from pins 53. Spring 55 also biases shoes 59 out ofcontact with the tires.

[0070] Another nice aspect of this invention is that the “actuated”position that handle 37 assumes when the parking brake is on (and pumplockout is in effect) is one such that handle 37 extends outwardlyrather far from thigh rest 13 and is easily visible to any operator.When the center of rod 39 or pivot 36 passes beyond center line 34defined between axis 81 and the pivot of member 65, then this locks thelever 35 in a brake position as rod 39 is forced or biased upward due totension by spring 55 and/or the effect of the tires against shoes 59.Thus, one can tell from a far distance from the mower whether the pumps31 and 33 are locked out and the parking brake is on. When the parkingbrake is off, and pins 53 disengaged from cutouts 46, handle 37 is at aposition rotated clockwise relative to its FIG. 5 position so thathandle 37 is substantially parallel to pad or rest 13 and does not stickoutwardly from rest 13 and thereby does not inhibit movement of theoperator during mower operation.

[0071]FIG. 6 is a perspective of the dash panel of the FIG. 1-5 moweraccording to certain embodiments of this invention. As illustrated, thehandle control assembly 11 includes rigid handle bar 10 which is affixedat both ends thereof to corresponding supports 15 in a non-movingmanner, and control levers 17 and 19 described above. As will beappreciated, there are two each of control levers 17 and 19, so that theright-hand lever 17 controls reverse movement of the right rear drivewheel while the left-hand lever 17 controls the reverse movement of theleft rear drive wheel. The same is the case with the two separate andindependent forward control levers 19. Also illustrated in FIG. 6 aredash panel 27, 101 which is supported and rigidly affixed to crossmember 141 on supports 15, aperture or hole 102 allows an operator toaccess the oil tank and fill same, clutch switch 103, key switch 104,throttle control 105 which may be operated by either hand of theoperator without the operator needing to remove his hands fromsupporting handle bar 10, hour meter 106, ammeter 107, dashboardmounting screws 108, thigh pad or rest 13, lever control axis 21, 71about which levers 17 and 19 pivot, pivot member 73 for coupling levers17 and 19 to control rods 75, and throttle control knob 111. Thisdashboard assembly has been specifically designed by the instantinventors so as to be user friendly and safe. This design allows theoperator to always have the ability to keep both hands on bar 10 duringactual mower operation regardless of whether the mower is being turned,or being driven in forward or reverse. Levers 17 and 19 are positionedon either side of bar 10 so that they are easily manipulated duringmower operation while the user remains supported at his/her hands by bar10. Also, elements 105, 111, 103, and 104 are positioned so that they donot interfere with the operators manipulation of levers 17 and 19 duringmower operation. Because levers 17 and 19 are rigidly affixed to oneanother in a non-pivotal manner, and pivot together as a unit about axis21, 71, either lever can be used for forwardly or rearwardly controllinga drive wheel, although preferably the operator uses levers 17 forreverse control and levers 19 for forward control due to the convenientlocation of support bar 10 for supporting the operator's hands duringoperation.

[0072]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an automatic neutral controlreturn system according to an embodiment of this invention, whichfunctions to bias pump control levers 49, 51 and levers 17 and 19 intotheir neutral positions when levers 17 and 19 are not being manipulatedby an operator. The FIG. 7 system may be used either separately from, orin conjunction with, the system of FIGS. 3-5 described above. As shownin FIG. 7, the system includes rotatable bar 63, steering control levers17 and 19, rod pivot bars 73, steering control rods 75, and mounted onengine deck 3 are hydro pump 31, hydro pump 33, pump control levers 49and 51 respectively described above, neutral levers 121 (onecorresponding to each pump control lever), substantially U-shapedcoupling levers 123 which each operatively couples one of the neutrallevers 121 to a pump control lever 49, 51, neutral adjustment basemember 125 upon which are mounted a pair of neutral adjustment knobs127, and biasing springs 129, 131, 133, and 135. Eye bolts 137 are alsoprovided in order to mount the various springs 129-135 to brackets 139which are rigidly welded of otherwise affixed to supports 15 or someother part of the mower. Eye bolts 139 may be utilized to adjust thetension of springs 129-135. Pin 122 is welded to element 123 that isadjacent pump 31, and pin 122 extends through aperture in each ofelements 121, base 132, and pipe bushings 120. Pin or rod 122 is notattached to member 123 that is adjacent pump 33. Each neutral lever 121pivots on pivot rod or pin 122 so that the biasing force created uponlevers 121 by springs 133 and 135 biases levers 121 about their pivotaxes in a counterclockwise direction (relative to the FIG. 7illustration) and the bottom engaging portions 124 of neutral levers 121come into engaging contact with the engaging ends of neutral adjustmentknobs 127. Each knob 127 includes both a hand-manipulatable end whichmay be turned by an operator in order to adjust the position of theknobs relative to lever 121 surfaces 124, and an engaging end adapted tocome into supporting contact with surfaces 124. Knobs 127 may bethreadedly adjustable in certain embodiments of this invention. Thus,springs 133 and 135 tend to bias levers 121 to pivot counterclockwiseabout axes 122 so that engaging members 128 cause coupling levers 123 topivot counterclockwise about their respective axes 130. Pivot supportbases 132 are rigidly bolted to the engine deck, and coupling levers 123are rigidly affixed (e.g. welded) to pump control levers 49, 51 so thatthey move together as a unit. One end of springs 133 and 135 is coupledto the engine deck while the other end of each spring is affixed to oneof neutral levers 121 in order to normally bias levers 121 and 49, 51 incounterclockwise directions.

[0073] Still referring to FIG. 7, springs 133 and 135 bias levers 121,members 123, and pump control levers 49, 51 in one direction (i.e.counterclockwise direction). Meanwhile, springs 129 and 131 bias theircorresponding levers 49, 51 in the opposite direction (i.e. clockwiserotational bias about their axes). When springs 129-135 are properlyadjusted relative to one another via eye bolts 137 and knobs 127 areproperly adjusted, the springs bias levers 49, 51 (and levers 17, 19)into neutral positions so that when no operator is touching levers 17,19 then springs 129, 131, 133, and 135 bias levers 49 and 51 such thatpumps 31 and 33 are in neutral and wheels 7 are not driven.

[0074]FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate the handle bar support assembly from therear of the mower. The assembly includes sheet metal supports 15 oneither side of the mower, central bends 23 in supports 15, dash panel27, 101, pivots 63 disposed between the opposing supports 15, bendsections 143 at the bottom areas of supports 15 for bolting supports 15to the engine deck, cutter deck 1, operator foot platform 18, rear drivewheels 7, cross member 141, and engine deck 3. The use of a single pieceof sheet metal for each member 15, bent at areas 23 and 143, has beenfound to greatly improve the manufacturability of the mower. A flatpiece of sheet metal is first cut into a shape so as to form a support15 as shown in FIG. 1-2. Then, the sheet metal is bent about line 23 andanother line so as to form portion 25, 143. In such a manner, only onepiece of sheet metal is required, so as to more efficiently enable themower to be manufactured and to provide a high quality sturdy mowerstructure.

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 8-9, supports 15 are shaped as shown forspecific functional and structural reasons. The base of each member 15curves backward via radius 2 defined in the rear edge wall of eachmember 15 for added strength and support for the steering assembly 21.The portions of supports 15 located vertically above bends 23 aresubstantially parallel to one another so that it is easier to mount thecross members and handle assembly components to the supports 15 and soaxis 21 and members 63 can fit through typical straight aperturesdefined in members 15, and so that pad 13 can be rectangular in designinstead of some abnormal shape. The substantially parallel orientationof the supports relative to one another above bends 23 makes it easierfor the manufacturer of the mower to tie components into one anotherabove bends 23. Supports 15 are curved and bent below bends 23 asillustrated in order to proved added strength to the supports, and tostrengthen the supports against flexing back and forth during operation.Radius 2 in the back edge of each member 15 also provides for additionalmower component space behind supports 15 (e.g. hoses and the like). Theshape of the supports 15, and their angle upward (from about 15-35degrees from the vertical) also allows pad 13 position to be maximizedfor the size of the handle bars, and it is noted that supports 15 getnarrower as they near the tops thereof for support/strength reasons.

[0076]FIG. 10 illustrates standing platform supporting structure (exceptfor operator support sheet 234) shown generally by reference numeral 18,and engine deck 3 structure, according to an embodiment of thisinvention. The platform 234 supporting structure 18 includes footplatform sheet 234 for supporting the operator's feet (not shown in FIG.10) during mower operation, platform sidewalls 151 for isolating theoperator's feet from the drive wheels 7 and their motors, verticalsurface 153, elongated annular bar 155 welded to the platform structureso as to give structure for wheel motor brackets 157 on both sides ofthe platform, a pair of motor brackets 157, rigid channel shaped member159 disposed between sidewalls 151 and proximate the front of foot areafor providing structure for brackets 157 and a rest 160 for the front ofthe standing platform, handlebar upright base members 163 includingvertically oriented portions and horizontally aligned portions 161 thesubstantially horizontally aligned portions 161 for supporting members15 which may be bolted or welded thereto via holes 165. In FIG. 10, avoid or open area is defined between bar 155, the sidewalls, and member159, this void area to be filled by operator support sheet 234 when thesheet is pivotally mounted via apertures 171 defined in the sidewalls.Operator supporting plate or sheet 234 is not mounted to the engine deck3, but instead is pivotally mounted to sidewall members 151 viaapertures 171—this is important as it would be undesirable for the plate234 to be mounted to the engine deck. The entire purpose of sidewalls151, bar 155, etc. is to enable operator supporting platform plate 234to be pivotally mounted beneath the engine deck, and not to the enginedeck. This is believed to improve mower performance.

[0077] Rigid strong members 161, 163 are important in that theysimultaneously provided mounting support for support members 15, motorbrackets 157, platform 18, and sidewalls 151. One metal sheet isprovided and bent so as to form engine deck surface 3, vertical surface153, and sidewalls 151. Thereafter, this single bent metal piece iswelded or otherwise rigidly affixed to bent beam supporting members 161,163 in order to provide ample support for platform 234, brackets 157,and supports 15. Supports 15 are mounted to members 161, 163 viasubstantially horizontally aligned support surface 164 and mountingholes 165. The mower is designed so that each member 161, 163 may beidentical in manufacture with regard to shape regardless of what side ofthe mower the piece ends up on, thereby simplifying the manufacturingprocess for the mower. Also, each member 161, 163 includes a support tab167 bent therefrom for providing rigidity and support to the handlebarmounting surfaces 164. Mounting holes 169 are provided on each sidewall151 for enabling wheel motor brackets 157 to be affixed to thesidewalls. Numerous holes 169 are provided so that the mounting positionof brackets 157 can be adjusted along with the vertical position of thefront caster wheels so as to adjust the height of the cutter deck andthus the cut of the mower. Pivot hole 171 is provided in certainembodiments in each sidewall 151 for the purpose of pivotally mounting athin pivotal sheet portion 234 (see FIG. 16) within the FIG. 10structure which is operatively associated with a deadman switch so thatthe mower is automatically stopped or turned off when the operator stepsoff of sheet 234 (e.g. metal sheet) the front of this platform sheet 234resting on portion 160.

[0078]FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate cutting deck 1 below which the grasscutting blade is rotatably mounted. FIG. 12 shows cutting deck 1 mountedto engine deck 3, with the engine deck in dotted lines. Cutting deckincludes side substantially vertically oriented edge wall 181 which iscontinuous all the way around the cutting deck 1 except for at the grassthrowing opening, apertures 183 through which pulley members protrude toa position beneath the deck in order to drive the blades, verticallyoriented supporting walls 185 for mounting deck 1 to engine deck 3 viaholes 187 which have axes that are horizontally oriented, verticallyextending supporting wall portions 189, front cover supporting wall 191,anti-scalp roller supporting members 193, and recess 195 within whichengine deck 3 fits and is mounted and allows the clutch to be removedfrom the engine for easy maintenance.

[0079]FIG. 13 is a top view of cutter deck 1 as if the top surfacethereof was transparent, further illustrating walls 197 which define thethree different cutting cavities occupied by the three different blades(e.g. reference numeral 184) under the deck. FIG. 14 is a top view ofcutter deck 1, with each of FIGS. 13 and 14 showing the deck 1 of FIGS.11-12.

[0080]FIG. 15 shows the grass-throwing opening 201 in cutter deck 1,with grass discharge opening 201 being defined in one side of the cutterdeck. The top surface 202 of cutter deck 1 is formed along withfrontwall 181 out of a single piece of sheet metal that is bent asillustrated so as to define opening 201 therein. Walls 182 and 206 arealso formed of a single metal sheet piece. Also provided on cutter deck1 adjacent discharge opening 201 are support bar member 203 forstiffening and providing support for the opening 201, bar 203 includingan elongated portion extending substantially from front wall 181 to rearwall 182 of the cutter deck, and rear slot portion 204 bent from bar 203for providing a slot or pocket for a catcher pin, and support member 205attached to front wall 181 for supporting bar 203. Elongated bar 205strengthens the front of the cutter deck, and is welded to 203. Also,wall portion 206 is formed of the same piece of metal used to form rearwall 182 with inner wall 206 being bent inwardly into opening 201 so asto angle the cut grass into the grass catcher, and to provide supportfor the catcher and the upper surface 202. Wall 206 is supported at itsrear edge by wall 197 which is either welded thereto or formedintegrally therewith so that wall 206 is resistant to bending and thelike when it should hit stones or the like during mowing. Additionalsupport 207 may be provided adjacent the front of opening 201 adjacentfront wall 181 in order to prevent wall 181 from bending or the likeupon hitting curbs, trees, or stones during mowing, with support 207being positioned adjacent wall 181 between upper wall 202 and lower bentportion 208. Elements 197, 206, and 182 are baffles/walls which form asubstantially triangular support structure in order to strengthen andsupport the skirt of the deck that is exposed by opening 201.

[0081] FIGS. 31-33 show grass catcher 211 pivotally attached to thecutter deck opening 201 of FIG. 15. FIG. 31 shows additional catcherbracket structure including grass chute deflector 212 pivotally attachedto support 203 via support tabs 213 in a manner such that deflector 212does not have to be removed from cutter deck 3 in order to attach agrass catcher thereto. Front support tab 214 is welded or otherwiseaffixed to support 203 and the upper surface 202 of cutter deck 1, withtab 214 including notch or aperture 215 defined therein for receivingpin 216 that is rigidly mounted to the front of catcher 211. Rear slot204 receives rear catcher pin 217 which simply may drop into slot 204when catcher 211 is pivotally attached to the cutter deck 1. Referringstill to FIGS. 32-33, substantially L-shaped metal rigid members 218 and219 are welded or otherwise rigidly affixed to catcher 211 forsupporting pins 216 and 217 respectively, with the pins being welded tomembers 218 and 219 in certain embodiments, although other types ofattachment will also suffice. Catcher 211 includes opening 220 definedtherein which is aligned with deck opening 201 when the catcher isattached to the mower so that grass will be blown or thrown fromunderneath the cutter deck outwardly through opening 201 and intocatcher 211 via catcher opening 220. Catcher frame support bar 221 isprovided at the rear of catcher opening 220 in order to define andsupport opening 220, and member 219 is welded to bar 221 in certainembodiments. Additional elongated frame members '222 are provided forcatcher 211 in order to define opening 220 and the catcher's shape, aswell as to form a mounting support for the screen or cloth which closesoff the catcher to hold cut grass.

[0082]FIG. 16 illustrates part of the deadman switch operativelyassociated with the foot platform 18 in a manner such that when theoperator steps off of the platform the deadman switch causes the mowerblades to shut down or the mower to turn off. Preferably, the engine iscut off and the cutting blades stopped when the switch is actuated. Theswitch structure includes flange nut 231 tightened against the uppersurface of Z-shaped member 232, substantially z-shaped member 232 whoseposition is adjustable relative to rod 233, rod 233 which is pulled downwhen the operator steps on platform sheet 234 which is pivotally mountedin holes 171 (see FIG. 10), nut 235 for adjusting the tension of spring236 via threads 236, washer 237 disposed between nut 235 and spring 236,compression spring 236 for biasing/lifting platform sheet 234 upward offof the FIG. 10 surface 18 when the operator steps off of the sheet andmower, base member 238 which is affixed (e. g. bolted) to gas tanksupport 239 (when base 238 is unbolted from 239 and rod 233 isdisengaged from tab 240, the subassembly is easy to work with from amaintenance point of view), rubber washer 241 (e.g. ¼″ thick) acts as abumper stop against member 238 when the operator steps off of platformto prevent platform bouncing or oscillation, fender washer 242 whichbacks up washer 241, R-clip 243 which fits through a hold in rod 233 andholds washers 241-242 from sliding down the rod, engine deck 3, aperture245 defined in the engine deck so that rod 233 can pass therethrough,and wherein rod 233 is threaded at one end thereof and bent 246 at theother end so as to fit through an aperture in tab 240, with an R-clipbeing preferably through a hole in the end of rod 233 adjacent tab 246to prevent the rod 233 from slipping out of the tab 240. Rod 233 ispivotally attached to tab 240. Platform sheet 234 is pivotally attachedto the FIG. 10 structure via 247. The FIG. 16 structure further includesswitch plunger 248 and corresponding electric switch 249 which clipsinto member 238.

[0083] The FIG. 16 deadman switch works as follows. When the operator isstanding on platform 18 and on platform sheet 234, the sheet 234 ispivoted downward about pivot 247 under the weight of the operator, andthe mower may be run or operating. However, when the operator steps offof sheet 234 of platform structure 18 when the clutch switch is on, thenspring 236 biases sheet 234 upward along with rod 233 and member 232 [ifthe clutch switch is off, then the deadman switch may do nothing incertain embodiments of this invention]. When member 232 and rod 233 arebiased upward in such a manner, switch 249 is actuated which in turncauses the mower's engine and/or blades to stop.

[0084]FIGS. 17 and 23-26 show a pump 31, 33 clamp and lever assemblyaccording to certain embodiments of this invention. This system may beused either separate from the systems of FIGS. 3-7, or in conjunctiontherewith on mowers herein. For example, linkage member 251 may be thebottom portion of a lever 123 in the FIG. 7 system.

[0085] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 23-26, the pump control clamp and leverassembly includes linkage member 251, 123 which may be pivoted about anaxis defined by shaft/rod 253 when levers 17 and 19 are manipulated bythe operator, clamp 255 (FIG. 23 shows clamp 255 before it is bent andFIG. 17 after it is bent), bolts 256 and 257 which pass through theopening or cavity defined by the two portions of bent clamp 255 (nowelding is needed), and pump shaft 253 for controlling the speed anddirection of hydro (hydraulic/hydrostatic) motors via pump 31, 33. Oneof the illustrated assemblies may be provided for each pump 31, 33.

[0086] Control linkage 251 bolts to claim 255 and acts as a leveroperatively coupled to rod(s) 75 and shaft(s) 253 for controlling thepump(s) 31, 33. Bolt 256 extends through both clamp 255 and through anaperture defined in linkage 251 so as to fixedly couple linkage 251 toclamp 255 on shaft 253. Bolt 256 is larger than bolt 257 for strengthreasons. Bolt 257 passes through linkage 251, clamp 255, and an aperture261 in shaft 253 in order to fixedly couple the linkage to shaft 253 sothat shaft 253 pivots and controls the pump at issue when linkage 251pivots. Elongated coupling member 257 (e.g. bolt, screw, pin, or thelike) also helps keep clamp 255 from rotating on shaft 253 if the flat262 on shaft 253 (which is part of the pump) were to strip for somereason. Member 257 also positions the clamp along the shaft 253, asmember 257 extends through the aperture 261 in the shaft and in betweenthe clamp walls to prevent the clamp from sliding off of the shaft 253.Member 257 also helps couple shaft 253 to clamp 255 which includesaperture 263 defined therein in a shape adapted to match and receive theflat 262 end portion of shaft 253. Flat washer 265 bridges across thegap in the bottom of clamp 255 so that nut 266 can tighten washer 265against clamp 255 without falling or slipping between the sidewalls ofthe clamp. Nut 266 may be of the Nylon locking type in certainembodiments, as may nut 267. Nut 267 is larger than nut 266 so that itwill not slip into the gap between the sidewalls of clamp 255 (no washeris used adjacent nut 267 in certain embodiments). The clamping and leverassembly set forth above is unique in that is provides and efficient andsimple way in which to allow linkage 251 to control pumps 31, 33, thesystem not having breakdown problems and being easy to assemble, andlittle if any welding is needed. In operation, when linkage 251 pivots,shaft 253 which is connected into a pump 31, 33 pivots with it so thatthe pump may be controlled which in turn controls the direction andspeed of the drive wheel(s) 7. Pump shaft 253 controls the speed anddirection of the hydro motors (one motor is located in each bracket 157for driving a rear drive wheel), and in preferred embodiments shaft 253is actually part of each pump 31, 33.

[0087] FIGS. 18-20 show an anti-wheelie assembly for use in mowersherein, this assembly for preventing the popping of severe wheelies(flipping over of the mower backward) by the mower during operation.FIG. 18 generally illustrates the FIG. 10 structure and in additionthereto an anti-wheelie wheel 271 on each side of the rear of the mower,a pair of wheel 271 supporting structures each including a shoulder bolt273 which tightens the wheel securely on the mower but allows wheel 271to turn, support 275 which maintains plate 276 rigid and keeps it frombending and deflects the operator's shoes when he/she steps off of themower so that they do not get hung up on nut 277, plate 276 forsupporting and mounting a wheel 271, wherein each plate 276 includingthree different apertures 278 therein for allowing adjustment of wheel271 position.

[0088]FIG. 19 shows the FIG. 18 mower backed up against curb 280, andthat the FIG. 18 anti-wheelie structure wheels 271 are positioned highenough relative to the ground so that wheels 7 will hit typical curbsprior to anti-wheelie wheels 271 hitting a curb thereby lengthening thelifespan of the anti-wheelie structure. Wheels 271 are also high enoughto miss curbs so as to allow tires/wheels 7 to climb over curbs.

[0089]FIG. 20 shows how the anti-wheelie structure of FIGS. 18-19prevent the mower from tipping/flipping over backwards during operation.As shown, because of wheels 271, if the mower should tip backward or popa wheelie, wheels 271 contact the ground as the mower lifts off theground at the front thereof thereby preventing the mower from flippingover backward. The more weight that is put on wheels 271, the morewheels 7 loose traction. The height of wheels 271 may be adjusted by theoperator so as to prevent wheelies at predetermined angles of tipping.Anti-wheelie wheels are set in the hole(s) corresponding to the heightof the drive wheels, which are also adjustable on the engine deck [theanti-wheelie wheels are always the same distance from the ground duringcertain embodiment]. Thus, when one adjusts the position of the drivewheels on the engine deck, the vertical location of the anti-wheeliewheels is adjusted so that the anti-wheelie wheels always remainsubstantially the same distance from the ground so that the wheels 7 canclimb over curbs and the like. Also, the exact angle at which wheels 271first touch the ground to prevent tipping can be adjusted by alteringthe height of wheels 271 via holes 278. Also, you do not want wheels 271located too far from the ground so that line 281 does not become tooclose to the vertical.

[0090] Another advantage to wheels 271 as opposed to a bar or the like,is that wheels 271 cannot dig into the ground thereby functioning is asuperior manner to prevent tipping.

[0091] In FIG. 20, the balance point 281 of the mower is shown. Line oraxis 281 is the line to the right of which the majority of the mower'sweight is located when wheels 271 become engaged with the ground. Line281 could also be said to be the balance point on wheels 271. It isimportant that the majority of the weight of the mower stay forward ofline 281 to prevent tipping. Because the majority of the mower's weightcannot pass beyond axis or point 281, the mower tips back forward. Axis281 may be designed so as to be angled forward of a vertical line onmost terrain, by an angle of from about 45-80 degrees. Thus, backwardtipping is prevented.

[0092] FIGS. 21 show a fuel tank support structure useable withembodiments herein. FIG. 22 shows a support leg of FIG. 21 that may beused either as a fuel tank support or as a support for supporting abattery mounting plate. The same support legs 290 may be used as both abattery support and a fuel tank support. Included are support bracket290, a radius 292 defined in an edge side of bracket 290 near the path299 of the deflector 212 when pivoted, radius 293 in the other side/edgeof bracket 290 for allowing room for various engines and the like,mounting apertures 294 defined in bracket 290 for oil filter mounting,mounting holes 295 in bracket 290 for platform switch base, base portion296 of bracket 290 (FIG. 22 shows portion 296 prior to bending and FIG.21 after bending for affixing to the flat surface of engine deck), chutedeflector 298, 212, and its path 299 avoiding bracket 290. Referencenumeral 300 illustrates approximate engine 9 placement showing the needfor radius 293.

[0093] Notch 301 in an upper edge of bracket 290 is adapted to receiveda strap 'in certain embodiments, when the FIG. 22 structure is used forbattery support.

[0094] As shown in FIG. 21 for fuel tank support, two brackets 290 aremounted on the engine deck, and are coupled together by, and support,fuel tank platform 302 upon which the fuel tank is placed during moweroperation.

[0095]FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment of this invention for expandingthe standing/foot area for the operator proximate platform 234.Illustrated for only one of the two drive wheels (there are two ofcourse each including everything illustrated) are hydro wheel motor 311with front fluid ports 312, wheel motor bracket 157, two hydraulic hoses313 (one behind the other), hydraulic fitting elbows 314 (one hidden),hydraulic fitting elbows 315 fitted into motor 311 (one hidden),threaded port 316, wheel mounting hub 317, tire for wheel 7, wheel rim318 with centered spider (or alternatively with the spider offset outfurther), engine deck 3, wheel spider 319 supports outer rim and formounting the wheel onto the hub, and operator standing area 18. Asshown, the illustrate inventive wheel structure adjacent the standingarea on the mower enables the wheel motor 311, and hub 317 to bepositioned between the sidewalls 151 and the outer edge of the tires.This conserves space and allows for more operator room between thetires.

[0096]FIG. 28 shows the cutter deck 1 of FIGS. 11-15, and a deck beltcover 331 for resting thereon. This assembly includes cover 331 whichrests on post members 332 and caps 333 when knobs 334 are tighteneddown. This system is designed so that only two knobs 334 are needed andthe system is resistant to rattling (other mowers use many more knobsand/or are susceptible to rattle between the cover and deck). Plasticcaps 333 are provided on post members 332 to reduce noise fromvibration, as the cover rests upon these caps. Post members 332 may bewelded to respective deck support walls 191 as illustrated. Threadedstuds 335 are screwed or otherwise attached into idler pivot pin 336 inorder to align cover 331 and knobs 334. Idler arms 339 rotate on pins336. The tops of idler pivot pins 336 are slightly lower in elevationthan the tops of caps 333 so that when cover 331 is tightened down viaknobs 334 it gives cover 331 more rigidity. Also, it has been found thatthe system works better when the idler pins 336 are each locatedproximate a line drawn between a pair of posts 332 on either side of thecenter of the cutter deck. Another unique feature which improvesperformance is the fact that the downward extending edge wall 340 ofcover 331 is positioned distanced from deck support wall 191 so that asubstantial space of gap is defined between wall 191 and wall 340, sothat the only rigid or solid elements that the cover contacts (otherthan the caps) are the tops of pins 336. This reduces rattling, andimproves design performance.

[0097] FIGS. 29-30 show front caster wheel structure according tocertain embodiments of this invention. Shown is only one wheelstructure, although two similar ones are provided. The caster structureincludes cross bar 350 welded to yoke 351 and pin 352 at 353 under theyoke to strengthen the yoke, yoke 351 to mount and hold the front casterwheel(s) 5, caster pivot pin 352, lower end 353 of pin 352 where the pinis welded to bar 350, caster wheel 5, and caster support member 355.Caster strength and performance is improved by this design. As shown inFIG. 30, pin 352 extends through yoke 351, so that its distal end (shownin dotted lines) is welded to cross member 350 beneath the yoke crossmember for added strength and support. Furthermore, it is noted thatmember 350 must be inserted and welded to pin 352 and yoke 351 on theside shown in order to clear the wheel, due to the angular design ofyoke 351.

[0098] Once given the above disclosure, various other modifications,features, and/or improvements will become apparent to the skilledartisan. Such other features, modifications, and improvements are thusconsidered a part of this invention, the scope of which is to bedetermined by the following claims.

We claim:
 1. A zero-turning-radius power lawn mower for operation by astanding occupant, the mower comprising: an engine for driving at leastone cutting blade; first and second drive wheels whose drive directionand speed are controlled by first and second pumps, respectively; abrake lever that may be actuated in order to apply a braking force tothe mower; and a pump lock-out system that is engaged to prevent saidfirst and second pumps from being changed from a neutral state, saidpump lock-out system being engaged along with said braking force when anoccupant or operator actuates said brake lever.
 2. The mower of claim 1,wherein said pump lock-out system includes an elongated rod extendingacross a substantial part of said mower, and first and second lockingmembers affixed to said elongated rod for movement therewith.
 3. Themower of claim 2, wherein said pump lock-out system further includesfirst and second pivotable pump control members to which are attachedfirst and second locking portions, respectively; and wherein said firstand second locking portions fit into first and second recesses orcut-outs, respectively, that are defined in said first and secondlocking members, respectively, so as to lock said first and second pumpsagainst adjustment from their neutral states.
 4. The mower of claim 1,wherein said pump lock-out system can only be actuated when said firstand second pumps are in their neutral states and the first and seconddrive wheels are not being driven.
 5. The mower of claim 1, furthercomprising a platform for supporting the standing occupant of the mower,said platform being located relative to a handle member so that asubstantial portion of the occupant's body may be located at azero-radius-turning axis of the mower during zero-radius turns thereofso that the occupant is substantially unaffected by centrifugal forcecreated during zero radius turns of the mower.
 6. The mower of claim 5,wherein said platform is substantially located between said first andsecond drive wheels which are rear drive wheels.
 7. A zero-radiusturning self-propelled power mower for operation by an operator, themower comprising: first and second drive wheels; a steering controlassembly for controlling steering of said mower, said steering controlassembly including: a rigid bar for supporting hands of the operatorduring mower operation; first and second pivotable control leverspositioned on one side of said rigid bar for selectively controllingreverse speed of said first and second drive wheels, respectively,wherein each of said first and second control levers is adapted to bepivoted toward said rigid bar in order to cause a corresponding one ofsaid drive wheels to move in a reverse direction; and the steeringcontrol assembly further including third and fourth pivatable controllevers positioned on the other side of said rigid bar so that said rigidbar is disposed between (i) said first and second control levers, and(ii) said third and fourth control levers; and wherein said third andfourth control levers are each adapted to be pivoted toward said rigidbar in order to cause a corresponding drive wheel to be driven in aforward direction.
 8. The mower of claim 7, wherein said first, second,third, and fourth levers are pivotable about a common pivot axis.
 9. Themower of claim 7, further comprising means for automatically biasingsaid first, second, third, and fourth levers to their respective neutralpositions when said levers are not being utilized by an operator, andwherein said mower is a stand-on mower including a foot platform forsupporting the operator who is standing on the mower's platform duringmower operation.
 10. The mower of claim 8, wherein said means includesfirst and second springs for biasing first and second pump controlmembers, respectively, in a first direction, and third and fourthsprings for biasing said first and second pump control members in asecond direction opposite said first direction so that said biasingforces of said first, second, third, and fourth springs automaticallybiases said first, second, third, and fourth levers to their neutralpositions when said levers are not being manipulated by the operator.11. A self-propelled power lawn mower for operation by a standingoperator, the mower comprising: a platform structure for supporting thestanding operator during mower operation, said platform structure beingat least partially located between first and second rear drive wheels ofthe mower; and wherein said platform structure includes: a bottomsurface for supporting the operator; first and second sidewallsconnected to said bottom surface for shielding the operator's feet fromsaid wheels; and an overhang portion connected to said sidewalls whichat least partially overhangs said bottom surface so as to be disposedbetween an engine and the operator's feet.
 12. The mower of claim 11,wherein first and second wheel motor brackets are mounted to said firstand second sidewalls, respectively, and first and second motors fordriving said wheels are disposed within said first and second brackets,respectively.
 13. A cutter deck adapted to be mounted on a power lawnmower, said cutter deck comprising: a top surface; a front sidewallconnected to said top surface, said front sidewall defining a frontsection of said cutter deck; a grass discharge opening defined in a sideof said cutter deck, so that cut grass can be discharge from an interiorof said cutter deck via said opening; a cover support wall located onsaid top surface for supporting a cutter deck cover, said cover supportwall defining a first area in which blade driving pulley members arelocated; first and second elongated vertically extending cover supportmembers extending upwardly from said top surface to support said cover;and wherein said cover is mounted on said cover support members so as tocover said first area, and wherein a sidewall of said cover is at leastpartially disposed in a spaced substantially parallel relationship froma corresponding portion of said cover support wall so as to define a gaptherebetween when said cover is mounted on said cutter deck.
 14. Thecutter deck of claim 13, wherein said deck includes catcher mountingstructure located proximate said discharge opening, said catchermounting structure including first and second pin receiving members forreceiving pins mounted on a grass catcher to be mounted to said cutterdeck.
 15. The cutter deck of claim 14, wherein said first pin receivingmember includes an aperture defined an a metallic member, and saidsecond pin receiving member includes a cavity or slot defined betweentwo substantially parallel members, said catcher mounting structure forenabling the catcher to be pivotally mounted to said cutter deck.
 16. Aself-propelled power lawn mower comprising: a pump for controlling drivespeed and drive direction of a drive wheel of the mower, the pumpincluding a shaft extending therefrom; control linkage operativelycoupled to a steering control system, said linkage adapted to pivotalong with said shaft in order to manipulate said pump; a clampingmechanism for coupling said linkage to said shaft, said clampingmechanism including a substantially U-shaped clamping member havingfirst and second sidewall portions, said shaft extending throughapertures defined in said sidewall portions, and wherein first andsecond elongated fasteners extend through a space defined between saidsidewall portions in order to couple said linkage to said clamp and tocouple said shaft to said clamp whereby said linkage and said shaft areoperatively coupled to one another so that they pivot together when saidlinkage pivots.